PINE BLUFF, Ark. — A balanced scoring attack and stifling defense propelled the Alabama A&M University women’s basketball team to a convincing 72–49 Southwestern Athletic Conference victory over Arkansas–Pine Bluff on Saturday at H.O. Clemmons Arena.
Three Bulldogs scored in double figures as Alabama A&M (5-9 overall, 1-1 SWAC) controlled the game from start to finish. The Bulldogs set the tone defensively, limiting UAPB to just 18 first-half points, including only two made field goals in the second quarter, to take a commanding 34-18 lead into halftime.
Kalia Walker led the way with 17 points, converting a perfect 10-of-10 from the free-throw line, while adding three rebounds, two assists and two steals. Rakiyah Beal followed with 16 points on efficient shooting, along with three rebounds, three assists and two steals. Jaida Belton posted a strong double-double, finishing with 13 points and 17 rebounds, while anchoring the defense with three blocks.
Alabama A&M jumped out early, building a 16-6 lead in the opening quarter and carrying a 19-12 advantage into the second. The Bulldogs continued to apply pressure, stretching the margin to 25-12 midway through the second quarter before closing the half on a strong run.
The Bulldogs put the game out of reach in the third quarter, opening the half with a 21-point period that extended the lead to as many as 23 points. Arkansas–Pine Bluff (3-9, 0-2 SWAC) struggled to recover from the early deficit despite double-figure performances from Indiya Bowen, Jailah Pelly, and Jayla Cornelius.
Alabama A&M shot 44.4 percent from the floor and 90.9 percent from the free-throw line while winning the rebounding battle 41-23. The Bulldogs also capitalized on turnovers, scoring 23 points off UAPB miscues.
Alabama A&M returns home Thursday to host Jackson State at the AAMU Event Center.